Does the PS5 Support Keyboard and Mouse?

Yes, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) does support keyboard and mouse input, but with some limitations. While you can easily connect most wired and wireless keyboards and mice to your PS5, not all games allow you to use them for gameplay. However, they work well for system navigation, web browsing, and certain games that offer native keyboard and mouse support.

If you’re wondering which PS5 games support keyboard and mouse, how to connect them, and what to do if they’re not working, this guide covers everything you need to know. Let’s dive into how to set up your keyboard and mouse, find compatible games, and optimize your settings for the best gaming experience.

How to Connect a Keyboard and Mouse to the PS5?

Connecting a keyboard and mouse to your PS5 is simple, whether you’re using a wired USB connection or a wireless Bluetooth setup. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Connecting a Wired Keyboard and Mouse

Most USB keyboards and mice work seamlessly with the PS5. Here’s how to set them up:

1. Plug the keyboard and mouse into the PS5’s USB ports.
2. Wait for the PS5 to detect and recognize them automatically.
3. Test the inputs by navigating through the PS5 menu using the arrow keys or mouse cursor.
4. If they don’t work immediately, restart your PS5 and try again.

2. Connecting a Wireless Keyboard and Mouse via Bluetooth

For Bluetooth keyboards and mice, follow these steps:

1. Go to PS5 Settings → Navigate to Accessories → Bluetooth Accessories.
2. Put your keyboard and mouse into pairing mode (check the manufacturer’s instructions).
3. The PS5 will detect available devices—select your keyboard and mouse from the list.
4. If prompted, enter the pairing code displayed on the screen.
5. Once connected, test the inputs to ensure they work properly.

3. Using a Keyboard and Mouse Adapter for PS5

Since not all PS5 games support native keyboard and mouse input, some players use a keyboard and mouse adapter to bypass this limitation. These adapters, like the XIM Apex, Hori Tactical Assault Commander, and Cronus Zen, allow you to use a keyboard and mouse in almost any game by emulating controller input.

However, keep in mind that using adapters can sometimes result in input lag or violations of game terms of service (especially in competitive multiplayer games like Call of Duty and Apex Legends).

Which PS5 Games Support Keyboard and Mouse?

While the PS5 supports keyboard and mouse input, not all games allow you to use them for gameplay. Here’s a list of PS5 games with keyboard and mouse compatibility:

PS5 Games That Support Keyboard and Mouse Natively

The following games have official support for keyboard and mouse:

• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II & Warzone
• Fortnite
• Minecraft
• The Sims 4
• Cities: Skylines
• War Thunder
• DayZ

These games allow you to fully control gameplay with a keyboard and mouse, providing an experience similar to PC gaming.

PS5 Games That Do NOT Support Keyboard and Mouse

Many major titles do not support keyboard and mouse input directly, including:

• Apex Legends
• Destiny 2
• Overwatch 2
• Rainbow Six Siege
• Rocket League

For these games, you’ll need a PS5 keyboard and mouse adapter if you want to use them, though this comes with risks of potential bans in online multiplayer. Using a PS5 keyboard and mouse adapter for games that don’t officially support them can create an unfair competitive advantage, especially in online multiplayer.

Many players consider this a form of input manipulation, as keyboard and mouse controls often provide superior accuracy and responsiveness compared to controllers. This can be particularly controversial in competitive shooters like Call of Duty, Apex Legends, and Warzone, where precise aiming and quick movements give players an edge.

Developers and publishers often discourage or outright prohibit adapter use, as it can disrupt fair play. Some games use anti-cheat detection systems that may flag adapter users, leading to warnings, restrictions, or even permanent bans.

While some players argue that using adapters levels the playing field for those who prefer keyboard and mouse, others see it as an unfair workaround that goes against the game’s intended mechanics. If you’re considering using an adapter, it’s important to check the game’s policies and be aware of the potential risks, both ethically and in terms of account security.

How Do You Connect a Keyboard and Mouse to a PS5?

Connecting a keyboard and mouse to your PS5 is surprisingly simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure smooth compatibility. Whether you’re using a wired, wireless, or Bluetooth setup, the process differs slightly. Below, I’ll walk you through each method step by step.

Wired Connection: The Easiest Setup

A wired keyboard and mouse offer the most straightforward connection. The PS5 has four USB ports (one USB-C and three USB-A), allowing you to plug in most keyboards and mice directly. While the PS5 has both USB-A and USB-C ports, they differ in power output and data transfer speeds, which may affect keyboard and mouse performance.

The front USB-C port offers the fastest data transfer speeds (10Gbps) and can support high-power peripherals, while the front USB-A port is limited to lower speeds (480Mbps) and is best suited for basic accessories. The two rear USB-A ports provide faster data transfer (10Gbps) and are ideal for high-performance peripherals.

For most wired keyboards and mice, any USB-A port will work, but gaming keyboards with RGB lighting or additional features may benefit from the rear USB-A or USB-C port for better power stability.

Steps to Connect a Wired Keyboard and Mouse:

1. Plug your keyboard and mouse into any available USB-A or USB-C port on the PS5.
2. Wait a few seconds while the console detects the devices.
3. Once connected, test the keyboard and mouse in the PS5 menu to confirm functionality.

Most wired keyboards and mice work instantly, but if yours isn’t responding, try switching to a different USB port.

Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Connection

If you prefer a cleaner setup without cables, a wireless USB keyboard and mouse is a great option.

Steps to Connect a Wireless Keyboard and Mouse (with a USB Dongle):

1. Insert the USB receiver of your keyboard/mouse into the PS5.
2. Wait a few seconds for the PS5 to recognize the devices.
3. Test movement and key inputs to ensure they are working properly.

Most wireless gaming keyboards and mice with a USB receiver work with PS5. However, some models may require software that isn’t supported on PlayStation consoles.

Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse: Does It Work?

The PS5 does support Bluetooth keyboards and mice, but compatibility can be hit or miss. Unlike a PC, the PS5 has limited Bluetooth support, meaning some third-party devices may not connect properly.

Steps to Connect a Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse:

1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories on your PS5.
2. Turn on your keyboard/mouse’s Bluetooth pairing mode.
3. Select the device when it appears on the screen.
4. Follow any on-screen prompts to complete pairing.

Important: Some gaming-focused Bluetooth keyboards and mice may not work because they require software drivers not available on the PS5.

Troubleshooting: What If Your Keyboard and Mouse Don’t Work?

If your PS5 keyboard and mouse aren’t working, try the following fixes:

• Check for Compatibility: Not all gaming keyboards and mice work with PlayStation. Try using a basic wired keyboard to test.
• Switch USB Ports: Some USB ports may not provide enough power for certain peripherals.
• Restart the PS5: A simple restart can refresh the connection.
• Use a PS5-Compatible Adapter: Some devices require adapters to work properly (more on that below).
• Try a Different Keyboard or Mouse: If possible, test with another device to see if the issue is with the PS5 or the peripheral.

Are All Keyboards and Mice Compatible With PS5?

Not all keyboards and mice work with PS5 games—even if they work in the PlayStation menus. Some high-end gaming peripherals require drivers or software that PS5 doesn’t support. Here’s what to check before buying:

• Wired or wireless USB peripherals typically work best.
• Bluetooth support is limited—only certain brands and models function correctly.
• Some gaming keyboards and mice may need a USB adapter for compatibility.
• Not all PS5 games support keyboard and mouse input (we’ll cover compatible games next).

In the next section, I’ll break down which PS5 games support keyboard and mouse gameplay so you know exactly what to expect. Let’s dive in!

Which PS5 Games Support Keyboard and Mouse?

While the PS5 supports keyboard and mouse input, not all games allow you to use them for gameplay. Unlike PC gaming, where keyboard and mouse are standard, most PlayStation games are optimized for controllers. However, some titles do support keyboard and mouse for improved precision.

Below is a list of PS5 games that support keyboard and mouse:

PS5 Games That Natively Support Keyboard and Mouse

• Call of Duty: Warzone – Enjoy precise aiming and movement like on a PC.
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II – Full keyboard and mouse support for multiplayer.
• Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War – Works well with a keyboard/mouse setup.
• Fortnite – Epic Games allows full keyboard and mouse support.
• Final Fantasy XIV – A popular MMO that fully supports both keyboard and mouse.
• The Sims 4 – Easily manage your Sims using PC-like controls.
• Minecraft (Bedrock Edition) – Offers full keyboard and mouse functionality.

PS5 Games That Partially Support Keyboard and Mouse

These games allow limited keyboard/mouse use, typically for in-game chat or menu navigation but not full gameplay:

• Rainbow Six Siege – Keyboard/mouse works for text chat and menu navigation, but aiming and movement are restricted to the controller.
• Cities: Skylines – Some menu navigation supports a keyboard.
• DayZ – Limited support for menu inputs.

Games That DO NOT Support Keyboard and Mouse on PS5

Even though some of these games have PC versions that support keyboard/mouse, the PS5 versions do not:

• Elden Ring – Controller only.
• GTA V – No native keyboard/mouse support.
• Red Dead Redemption 2 – PlayStation version requires a controller.
• Hogwarts Legacy – Controller use only.
• The Last of Us Part I & II – No keyboard/mouse functionality.

Can You Use an Adapter to Enable Keyboard and Mouse in Any Game?

Some players use keyboard and mouse adapters to work around the lack of official support. These adapters convert keyboard/mouse inputs into controller signals, tricking the PS5 into recognizing them as a DualSense controller.

Popular Keyboard and Mouse Adapters for PS5:

• XIM Apex – One of the most widely used adapters, offering smooth input conversion.
• Cronus Zen – Allows keyboard/mouse usage in unsupported games.
• Hori Tactical Assault Commander Pro – Officially licensed for PlayStation.

Warning: While these adapters work, some online games like Call of Duty: Warzone have anti-cheat systems that detect input translation. Using an adapter could potentially result in a ban in competitive games.

Keyboard and Mouse vs. Controller: Which Is Better on PS5?

If a game supports both, should you use a keyboard/mouse or a controller? It depends on the game and your playstyle.

Feature	Keyboard & Mouse	Controller
Accuracy	Better for aiming in FPS games	Decent but less precise
Comfort	Great for long sessions	More relaxed, better for couch gaming
Game Compatibility	Limited support	Full support on all PS5 games
Ease of Use	More setup required	Plug and play
Competitive Play	Favored in FPS and strategy games	Better for casual and console-exclusive titles

Best Choice for Different Game Types:

• FPS Games (Call of Duty, Fortnite, Warzone) → Keyboard & Mouse for precision aiming.
• Third-Person Adventure (Horizon Forbidden West, Spider-Man) → Controller for better movement and immersion.
• Strategy & Management (The Sims 4, Cities: Skylines) → Keyboard & Mouse for faster controls.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Using a Keyboard and Mouse on PS5?

Using a keyboard and mouse on a PS5 can be a game-changer if the game supports it. If you play FPS, MMOs, or strategy games, it’s absolutely worth trying. However, for most PS5-exclusive games, a controller remains the best choice.

Should You Switch to Keyboard and Mouse on PS5?

• If you play competitive FPS games, it can improve your aiming.
• If you enjoy MMOs and strategy games, it makes navigation easier.
• If you prefer a PC-like experience on your console, it’s worth a shot.

However, if your favorite games don’t support keyboard and mouse, you’re better off sticking with a DualSense controller or using an adapter (with caution).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)